The Alchemist has been described as 'the greatest farce in the English language'. In this newly established edition, Ben Jonson's rich play offers intriguing insights into London life of the early seventeenth century. He satirises and celebrates the confusions and anarchy of a fast-moving city world populated by a fascinating array of diverse and devious characters.

The Alchemist has been described as 'the greatest farce in the English language'. In this newly established edition, Ben Jonson's rich play offers intriguing insights into London life of the early seventeenth century. He satirises and celebrates the confusions and anarchy of a fast-moving city world populated by a fascinating array of diverse and devious characters.